Watch: Parai Drums Bring Chennai’s Streets to Life on Madras Day

Quick Summary

• The Parai is one of the oldest percussion instruments in Tamil culture.
• Historically, it was used in rituals and has evolved to become a powerful symbol of resistance, identity, and festivity.
• On Madras Day,its cultural significance is being revisited to explore its enduring legacy and how it inspires across generations.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The parai’s journey from ritualistic use to embodying modern symbols of social resistance highlights its deep cultural resonance within Tamil heritage. Its transformation underscores the power of traditional art forms in shaping collective identity and community solidarity. As India embraces diverse traditions,instruments such as the Parai remind us of the importance of preserving cultural legacies that continue to inspire across time while adapting meaningfully to contemporary contexts.

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